Manchester United have work to do at Old Trafford after drawing with Lyon 2-2 in the Europa League quarter-finals.
An error from Andre Onana gave Lyon the lead in the first half after the goalkeeper allowed Thiago Almada’s free kick to bounce over his outstretched arms.
Rasmus Hojlund and Bruno Fernandes both had clear chances turned wide of the target as they searched for the equaliser which gave Ruben Amorim’s men some hope heading towards the second half.
Leny Yoro confirmed their confidence after meeting Manuel Ugarte’s volley with a glancing header which brought the equaliser on the stroke of half-time.
Joshua Zirkzee, coming off the bench in the second half, thought he had scored the winner after meeting a cross from Fernandes in the 88th minute but another mistake from Onana earned the hosts a point.
He fumbled a shot late in stoppage time but Rayan Cherki was on hand quickly to tap it home.
Relive the Europa League action with our live blog below:
Lyon vs Manchester United LIVE
- Lyon draw with Manchester United in the Europa League quarter-final first leg
- 90+4' GOAL! Another Onana error gives Lyon the equaliser (LYO 2-2 MUN)
- 88’ GOAL! Zirzkee’s header puts Man Utd into lead (LYO 1-2 MUN)
- 81’ CHANCE! Garnacho’s volley is pushed over the top by Perri (LYO 1-1 MUN)
- 45+5' GOAL! Leny Yoro heads in equaliser on stroke of half-time (LYO 1-1 MUN)
- 25’ GOAL! Almada curls in a free kick (LYO 1-0 MUN)
- 24’ CLOSE! Fernandes’ strike is deflected over the crossbar (LYO 0-0 MUN)
- 19' CHANCE! Hojlund pulls a shot wide of the far post (LYO 0-0 MUN)
Andre Onana’s dire performance leaves Man Utd’s Europa League quarter-final on a knife edge
22:31 , Mike JonesIf there was something to support Andre Onana’s theory Manchester United are “way better” than Lyon, there was further fuel for Nemanja Matic’s accusation. A day after the Serb branded the Cameroonian one of the worst goalkeepers in United’s modern history came a pair of mistakes to support his argument. This was one of his worst nights.
Arguably United were superior to Lyon but it was not reflected in the scoreline as a quarter-final remained on a knife-edge. That was due to Onana, who bookended the scoring with blunders, affording Lyon a 95th minute equaliser when he pushed Georges Mikautadze’s shot straight back out. Rayan Cherki, following up, tapped in.
Onana’s dire performance leaves Man Utd’s Europa League quarter-final on a knife edge
Ruben Amorim admits ‘there is nothing to say’ to help Andre Onana after costly goalkeeping errors
23:35 , Mike JonesRuben Amorim admitted there is ‘nothing he can say’ to Andre Onana to help him after the Manchester United goalkeeper made two mistakes against Lyon that cost his team a lead in their Europa League quarter-final against Lyon.
The first error saw Onana dive too late to stop Thiago Almada’s free kick and the ball bounced over his head into the back of the net in the first half before a fumble late in stoppage time of the second allowed Rayan Cherki to score an equalise and leave the tie delicately poised at 2-2.
Amorim admits ‘there is nothing to say’ to help Onana after costly goalkeeping errors
'I don't think Amorim likes his team'
23:06 , Mike JonesPaul Scholes told TNT Sports:
“I don’t think Ruben Amorim believes that [his team are continuing to improve]. I don’t think he likes his team to be honest. I think he knows he hasn’t got a great football team. I think he wants better, he needs better.
“I think you can see that from the way he is on the touchline, he always looks disappointed to me.”
Amorim on Onana:
22:52 , Mike Jones"[It is] important to focus on the next game for the league and then think about the second leg against Lyon.
“When one player has a mistake, all the team has a mistake so we continue like that.
"No we continue to do the same thing. Training, seeing the games, trying to choose the best eleven to win every match."
Ruben Amorim speaking to TNT Sports:
22:49 , Mike Jones"We are really disappointed [to concede late].
“We should have taken a one goal advantage to the next game but we have the next game at home - we will try to win that game."
Yoro on the lessons United can learn from tonight:
22:43 , Mike Jones“I think to be together like that, defend really well. I think we did really well. It was compact, we tried to block every counter attack, things like that we need to keep it and to give everything at Old Trafford.
“I think if we won 2-1 we would be more confident [to make it through] for sure we concede this goal, it's difficult but we need to keep our heads up. We didn't lose, we can win at Old Trafford.”
Yoro on scoring his first goal for United:
22:40 , Mike Jones“I didn’t enjoy too much - no celebration because it’s normal, we want to win.
“No time for celebration. Really happy to score my first goal. We don’t have the win but it’s okay.
“Honestly it was really quick, I don’t even think about anything, I just put my head, try to score.”
Defender Leny Yoro speaking to TNT Sports:
22:37 , Mike Jones"I think this is the worst moment to concede a goal like that. We were winning 2-1, I think away this was a good score but we go with a draw and we try to win the game at home.
“We defended really well but they are a good team, a good striker, so we need to be ready for everything but unfortunately we concede the goal.”
Onana at fault for United again
22:33 , Mike JonesAndre Onana has now made nine errors leading to goals in his short Man Utd career.
It’s becoming a big problem for the team who are desperately trying to get themselves into some kind of form and momentum.
United will be the favourites at Old Trafford but they could have been further ahead.
FT Lyon 2-2 Man Utd
22:21 , Mike JonesIzzy Christiansen talking to BBC Radio 5 Live:
“Onana, yeah I think he looks a bit silly tonight and Matic is probably the one who is going to sleep well.”
Full-time! Lyon 2-2 Man Utd
21:58 , Mike Jones90+5 mins: There goes the whistle.
A fine game ends in a draw and sets up the second leg perfectly.
For all his words in the build-up to the match, two errors from Andre Onana means that United head into that match on level terms.
GOAL! Lyon 2-2 Man Utd (Rayan Cherki, 90+4')
21:57 , Mike JonesDrama!
Rayan Cherki comes to the rescue for Lyon as they fling men forward.
Lacazette pokes the ball at goal and forces a stop, and a fumble, out of Onana.
Cherki is there to pounce and nets the equaliser.
Lyon 1-2 Man Utd
21:53 , Mike Jones90+2 mins: Bruno Fernandes whips a corner into the box but a foul from the visitors ends the attack in favour of Lyon.
Lyon 1-2 Man Utd
21:52 , Mike Jones90 mins: Five minutes of added time to play here.
GOAL! Lyon 1-2 Man Utd (Joshua Zirkzee, 88')
21:50 , Mike JonesWow!
That is a cracking goal from the visitors. It’s Joshua Zirkzee who delivers. A long ball forward to Fernandes is deflected but Mainoo manages to touch it back to his captain.
Fernandes flicks it into the box to Zirkzee who rises highest and heads the ball past Lucas Perri to put United ahead.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:47 , Mike Jones87 mins: Lacazette receives a pull back into the box. He takes a touch to set himself then lifts his shot over the top of the goal.
Another chance for Lyon to take the lead and they’ve squandered it. Will thta come back to bite them?
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:44 , Mike Jones84 mins: Victor Lindelof and Kobbie Mainoo come on for Man Utd.
Alejandro Garnacho and Harry Maguire are the two men replaced for the final few minutes.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:41 , Mike Jones81 mins: Save!
That should be two for Man Utd. They have five men high up the pitch and Fernandes sends the ball out to Dorgu.
He whips the ball into the far side of the box where Garnacho arrives and volleys the ball at goal.
Lucas Perri spots it late but manages to push it over the crossbar.
The resultant corner is then curled onto the head of Casemiro who powers an effort wide of goal.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:39 , Mike Jones78 mins: Oh hello!
Tagliafico launches into a tackle on Mount who stumbles and gets back onto his feet.
Mount eventually loses the ball but wins a free kick. Then it all kicks off with Mount and Tagliafico squaring up.
The referee books them both.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:36 , Mike Jones75 mins: 15 minutes to play in France. Bruno Fernandes has dropped back to play alongside Casemiro.
United will be the favourites to progress from this tie if they can stop Lyon for scoring again tonight.
They’ll fancy themselves at Old Trafford in the second leg.
'It wasn't a good night for Hojlund'
21:34 , Richard Jolly at Parc Olympique Lyonnais“An understatment to say it wasn't a good night for Rasmus Hojlund, who offered too little with his movement but looks drained of all confidence.
“It is one reason why, not for the first time, Bruno Fernandes has been much the best of United's front three.”
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:33 , Mike Jones72 mins: Bruno Fernandes looks to curl the ball over to the far post and whips it straight out of play.
Manuel Ugarte goes off with Mason Mount coming on for United.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:32 , Mike Jones71 mins: Rayan Cherki sends a dainty chip into the box for Maitland-Niles’ underlapping run.
The left-back shoots but pings a shot high over the crossbar.
At the other end of the pitch Dorgu gets forward and wins a free kick for United. Another opportunity for them to get the ball into the box here.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:30 , Mike Jones69 mins: Tolisso touches the ball with his hand and gives up a free kick.
Fernandes puts the set piece into the box but Maguire shoves Tolisso and fouls him meaning the attack dies down.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:26 , Mike Jones66 mins: Oh chance!
Tolisso receives the ball and shimmies twice to get past two Man Utd defenders before hitting his shot straight into the arms of Andre Onana.
That was a massive chance for Lyon.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:24 , Mike Jones63 mins: Garnacho bombs down the right wing and wins a corner after Niakhate slides into a tackle which turns the ball behind.
Joshua Zirkzee comes on to replace Rasmus Hojlund for United.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:23 , Mike Jones60 mins: No changes yet from Ruben Amorim but he’ll be thinking about them.
Mason Mount, Joshua Zirkee and Luke Shaw are all on the bench ready to help out.
30 minutes to play in Lyon.
'Lyon have shown an ambition to win the game'
21:17 , Richard Jolly at Parc Olympique Lyonnais“Lyon have been the first to make a move that shows an ambition to win the game tonight, bringing on Alexandre Lacazette to complete a front four.
“The striker might have scored with his first touch. If all eyes were on a veteran Lyon substitute today, it was Nemanja Matic.
“Lacazette, though, is the second highest scorer in their history.”
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:16 , Mike Jones55 mins: Fernandes takes a corner for United and hooks the ball into the penalty area.
There’s some argy bargy but Lyon deflect the ball behind for a second attempt.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:15 , Mike Jones54 mins: That’s an attacking change from Paulo Fonseca which shows the intent of Lyon’s manager.
Manuel Ugarte is the latest to go in the book for a shove on Mikautadze. Lyon play the free kick short and look to break through the United line.
Lacazette gets a chance. Mikautadze beats Garnacho on the left and pulls back the ball. He finds his captain who volleys a shot wide of the far post!
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:12 , Mike Jones51 mins: Bruno Fernandes looks to pick out Garnacho as he cuts into a more central position from his role on the left wing.
The pass is overhit and the Argentine can’t reach it.
Alexandre Lacazette is prepped and ready to go. The former Arsenal forward comes onto the pitch to replace Paul Akouokou.
Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:08 , Mike Jones48 mins: Manuel Ugarte gets forward and scuttles around Tolisso before pulling the ball back into the middle of the penalty area.
There are none of his teammates around and Noussair Mazraoui gives away a free kick trying to recover the balll high up the pitch.
Second half! Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:06 , Mike JonesNo changes from either manager as Manchester United get the ball rolling again in this quarter-final first leg.
Can Man Utd go on to win this game?
HT Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:04 , Mike JonesMan Utd have created the better opportunities in that first half.
They managed seven shots with three on target. Leny Yoro’s goal has given United hope they can win this game.
In contrast, Lyon have had six shots with two on target.
HT Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
21:00 , Mike JonesCan United go on to win after Leny Yoro’s equaliser?
'A fair score at the break'
20:56 , Richard Jolly at Parc Olympique Lyonnais“A first United goal for Leny Yoro, who reacted well when Manuel Ugarte hooked the ball into the box.
“Probably a fair score at the break.”
Half-time! Lyon 1-1 Man Utd
20:52 , Mike JonesThe whistle goes to end the first half and the hosts have their slim lead eradicated.
There had been promising signs that United can get back into this game but they’ll need to create more chances in the second half if they want to go ahead.
Ruben Amorim may need to switch up the personnel as well and bring on some attacking reinforcements to get his team in front.
GOAL! Lyon 1-1 Man Utd (Leny Yoro, 45+5')
20:51 , Mike JonesEqualiser!
A free kick, won by Garnacho, is whipped into the box. It comes too close to Lucas Perri who punches it away.
The ball drops to Manuel Ugarte who volleys it backtowards goal.
Leny Yoro leaps and glances a header into the bottom corner.
Lyon 1-0 Man Utd
20:46 , Mike Jones45 mins: Four minutes of added time to play.
Lyon win another free kick, this one in front of goal, but it’s blazed high and wide this time.
Lyon 1-0 Man Utd
20:42 , Mike Jones42 mins: Lyon have been very calm and assured so far tonight.
Fernandes puts another cross into the box but it is cleared by Mata.
Cherki receives the ball and looks to get forward quickly but United recover possession with men tracking back.
Lyon 1-0 Man Utd
20:38 , Mike Jones39 mins: Georges Mikautadze is tackled by Manuel Ugarte and stays down.
United send the ball into the area and Dorgu, then Garnacho have shots blocked.
Lyon turn the ball behind for a corner while their forward gets treatment. He’s back on his feet in a flash so Fernandes decides to take the corner.
Lyon 1-0 Man Utd
20:34 , Mike Jones33 mins: Hojlund gets a half-chance and decides to shoot from the right side of the box.
He drills the effort low but straight at the goalkeeper.
Man Utd need to find a goal from somewhere now. There are signs that they can challenge Lyon but they need more ruthlessness in the final third.
'Onana's week has been eventful'
20:33 , Richard Jolly at Parc Olympique Lyonnais“Andre Onana's week has been eventful. And also chastening, so far, with Onana rather culpable for Thiago Almada's goal.
“It revives memories of last season's Champions League campaign, when Onana was heavily at fault for United's failure.”
Lyon 1-0 Man Utd
20:32 , Mike Jones30 mins: Diogo Dalot picks up a yellow card for a late challenge. The goal has rocked Man Utd and they need to settle themselves down again here.
The Lyon fans are having a great time out there now.
GOAL! Lyon 1-0 Man Utd (Thiago Almada, 25')
20:27 , Mike JonesLyon win themselves a free kick over on the inside left part of the pitch.
Thiago Almada takes the set piece and curls the ball into the box.
It’s a cross really and aimed for one of his teammates. No-one gets to the ball but it bounces and finishes inside the far post.
Andre Onana was nowhere near it. He needs to do better there.
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:23 , Mike Jones24 mins: Close!
Dalot slips the ball to Alejandro Garnacho who cuts the ball back to Bruno Fernandes.
He shoots first time and a block by Moussa Niakhate takes the ball over the crossbar!
Big chance for the visitors.
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:21 , Mike Jones21 mins: Man Utd haven’t been able to get Bruno Fernandes on the ball yet.
He’ll be key to their chances on winning tonight if they can build some momentum.
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:19 , Mike Jones19 mins: Chance! Dorgu is fed the ball as he comes down the left wing.
He takes the ball to the edge of the box and pulls it back to Rasmus Hojlund who scuffs his left-footed shot and knocks it wide of the back post.
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:18 , Mike Jones18 mins: It’s been a slow and steady start from both teams with United probably the slightly happier as they’re playing away from home.
Lyon are seeing more possession however which Ruben Amorim will want to change as this game goes on.
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:15 , Mike Jones15 mins: A nice pass from Fernandes on the turn tries to get Patrick Dorgu in behind the lines.
The ball bobbles too close to the nearest centre-back from Lyon and the host intercept the ball first.
'A great atmosphere'
20:14 , Richard Jolly at Parc Olympique Lyonnais“A great atmosphere inside the Groupama Stadium (Parc Olympique Lyonnais), even if the failures of the Lyon metro system may explain a few empty seats, with some of the United fans affected.
“A couple of early injury stoppages may have cost Lyon a little momentum but there are signs they could be regaining it.
“Andre Onana, meanwhile, is not very popular with their supporters.”
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:12 , Mike Jones12 mins: Oh!
Rayan Cherki lofts a fine cross over to the left side of the box and finds Nicolas Tagliafico.
He tries to nod the ball back across goal but Diogo Dalot gets back to turn it behind for a corner.
That might have been a chance if he turned the header towards goal.
The corner comes to nothing for the hosts.
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:09 , Mike Jones9 mins: Alejandro Garnacho is pushed over on the right side of the pitch for United.
The resultant free kick is whipped into the six-yard box by Bruno Fernandes.
Casemiro throws himself at the ball but it hits Corentin Tolisso who nudges it behind for a corner.
Fernandes is on set piece duties again and floats this one into the box but it is cleared at the near post.
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:06 , Mike Jones6 mins: This Man Utd team drew 0-0 with Man City on Sunday and Amorim has stuck with them.
It’s the first time this season he has made no changes between games.
Clinton Mata lands awkwardly after beating Rasmus Hojlund to an aerial ball and needs some treatment.
Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:03 , Mike Jones3 mins: Alejandro Garnacho is taken out from behind by Paul Akouokou and the Man Utd man is slightly hurt but that.
He’s up on his feet and ready to play on though.
United win another free kick as Patrick Dorgu is bundled over the ball.
Ruben Amorim is already squatting down and rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
Kick off! Lyon 0-0 Man Utd
20:01 , Mike JonesLyon get the ball rolling for the first leg. They have never beaten Man Utd in competition fixtures.
The hosts work the ball back to the goalkeeper who punts it long.
The ball bounces through to Andre Onana who gets met with a chorus of boos from the home fans.
Lyon vs Man Utd
19:55 , Mike JonesThe teams make their way out onto the pitch at the Parc Olympique Lyonnais.
Ruben Amorim has spoken about how Lyon will be more physical than Real Sociedad.
He wants Man Utd to be aggressive and says his players are ‘ready for them’.
We’ll find out shortly. Kick off is up next...
Man Utd's Champions League hopes
19:50 , Mike JonesThis has been a rotten season for Manchester United but there is still hope that it can be salvaged.
They need to win the Europa League which will put them in the Champions League next year as well as provide more options to strengthen the squad during the summer.
That goal starts in France tonight where they’ll need to keep Lyon at bay and hope to inflict a defeat on the Ligue 1 side.
Cherki's incredible season
19:45 , Mike JonesLyon’s Rayan Cherki has assisted eight goals in the Europa League this season, a joint record by a player in a season along with Atletico de Madrid's Diego in 2011-12.
Additionally, only Dries Mertens (39) has created more chances than Cherki (38) this season, with only two players creating 40+ chances in one season: Kevin De Bruyne in 2014-15 for Wolfsburg (52) and Hakim Ziyech in 2016-17 for Ajax (40).
Fernandes' star power
19:40 , Mike JonesManchester United’s Bruno Fernandes has been involved in 41 goals in the Europa League, the most of any player in the competition’s history (24 goals, 17 assists).
He also has the most goals and assists in the knockout stages (16 goals, 11 assists), while his 11 assists are the joint most by a player in the knockouts, along with former teammate Juan Mata.
50 up for Fonseca
19:35 , Mike JonesLyon manager Paulo Fonseca will become the fifth manager to take charge of 50+ Europa League games after Unai Emery (93), Jorge Jesus (68), Jose Mourinho (58) and Jindrich Trpisovsky (52).
Three of the previous four have suffered defeat in their 50th game with Emery the exception in the 2015 final with Sevilla.
Ruben Amorim hits back at Gary Neville after ‘love-in’ Manchester derby dig
19:30 , Mike JonesManchester United boss fired back at Gary Neville’s criticism that this weekend’s 0-0 derby was a “love-in” between the players.
Expressing his disappointment, the pundit said at the end of the game: “It looks like it’s Sunday afternoon and they’re going to go for a roast dinner together now.”
Amorim jokingly responded: “I understand that Gary Neville is critical about everything, so I understand that part.
“But then I understand that we are not fighting – we are in the moment that we are doing the worst season in history.”
Gary Neville hits out at ‘robotic’ football after Manchester derby draw
19:25 , Harry Latham-CoyleGary Neville has hit out at the “robotic” nature of modern football after being left disappointed by a dour draw in the Manchester derby.
“I don’t think there was one player who walked off that pitch disappointed about drawing 0-0, from either side,” Neville said. “They all walked off sort of thinking, ‘We’re OK here, got away without making a mistake’. It was that type of game.
“The best Man City and Man United teams would be very disappointed with the way they’ve approached the end of that game. It looks like it’s Sunday afternoon and they’re going to go for a roast dinner together now. They’re micromanaged to an inch of their lives, so robotic, and it’s symptomatic of a lot of games that we’re watching nowadays.
“I’m disappointed. It’s a Manchester derby. It should have more blood, thunder, and risk and courage involved in playing the game and winning the game than that.”
Good signs for Man Utd
19:20 , Mike JonesManchester United haven’t lost the first leg of any of their last 11 major knockout ties (five wins, six draws).
The last time they did so was a 1-0 home defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League in April 2019.
Each of their last three away first leg matches have been drawn.
United's Europa League record
19:15 , Mike JonesMan Utd have lost just one of their last 21 Europa League matches (14 wins, six draws), losing 3-0 away to Sevilla in April 2023.
That defeat also remains the only time in those 21 games they have failed to score.
Lyon's goalscoring prowess
19:10 , Mike JonesLyon’s 4-0 win over FCSB in the second leg of the last 16 was their biggest win in Europe since beating Apollon Limassol 4-0 in November 2017.
They’ve scored 23 goals in this season’s Europa League, only scoring more in two major European campaigns – 29 in 2004-05 and 28 in 2016-17.
Comeback kings
19:05 , Mike JonesManchester United’s two away visits to Lyon have both been in the Champions League and on both occasions they came from behind to draw, from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 in September 2004 and 1-0 down to draw 1-1 in February 2008.
Premier League guaranteed fifth Champions League spot after Arsenal beat Real Madrid
19:00 , Mike JonesThe Premier League will be guaranteed at least five teams in the 2025/26 edition of the Champions League after Arsenal’s thrilling 3-0 victory over Real Madrid on Tuesday night.
Two additional spots in the Champions League are available to the leagues in the countries with the highest Uefa co-efficients, with countries earning co-efficient points based on how their sides perform.
Premier League guaranteed fifth Champions League spot after Arsenal beat Real Madrid
'To be able to play for Lyon is my biggest dream'
18:55 , Mike JonesMidfielder Rayan Cherki spoke about the possibility of winning the competition with Lyon.
He said: "I was born in Lyon and I will die being from Lyon. This is something that you cannot buy. I was lucky to be born into a family where we could stay simple, old-fashioned.
“To be able to play for Olympique Lyonnais is one of my biggest dreams that’s coming true.
“And if I can win a trophy with Olympique Lyonnais, I would have accomplished the most beautiful thing with my favourite club."
'Matic is only on the bench'
18:54 , Richard Jolly at Parc Olympique Lyonnais“Lyon picked Nemanja Matic for the pre-match press conference but not the game.
“Andre Onana's chief critic is only on the bench for a game that, if it goes wrong, could in effect end United's season but which, should it go well, would take them a step closer to a return to the Champions League.
“It is a meeting of two Portuguese coaches: Paulo Fonseca is serving a nine-month touchline ban in Ligue 1, but that does not apply to the Europa League.
“Ruben Amorim, meanwhile, is unbeaten in Europe as United manager. If that is still the case when the final whistle goes, they will be favourites to reach the semi-final.”
Lyon team to face Man Utd
18:52 , Mike JonesLyon XI: Perri; Maitland-Niles, Mata, Niakhate, Tagliafico; Tolisso, Akouokou, Veretout; Cherki, Mikautadze, Almada
Man Utd team to face Lyon
18:48 , Mike JonesMan Utd XI: Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, Yoro; Dalot, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu; Garnacho, Hojlund, Fernandes
Reporting for European duty 🌍#MUFC || #UEL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 10, 2025
'This is an opportunity to save our season'
18:40 , Mike JonesJoshua Zirkzee says winning the Europa League can ‘save’ Manchester United’s season.
Before the match he said: “The Europa League is an opportunity for us to save the season.
“We have to be honest about that, because the club's goal is to be in the Champions League.
"There’s definitely pressure at this club. But that’s something you just have to deal with.
“You just have to wake up every morning wanting to be the best [you can be] and work hard. And then everything will work out just fine."
'We have to be ready'
18:35 , Mike JonesManchester United defender Diogo Dalot said: "We have to be ready for every scenario. We have prepared well.
“I think tomorrow, if we are sharp in our minds and physically, we can play a very good game."
Manchester United have to be careful with Kobbie Mainoo
18:30 , Mike JonesRuben Amorim says Manchester United have to be careful with Kobbie Mainoo’s fitness after the developing teenager returned to the squad for the first time in two months.
“In this moment we have to be careful with Kobbie,” head coach Amorim said. “He had some games out, so we have to be careful with his fitness.”
Ruben Amorim: Manchester United have to be careful with Kobbie Mainoo
Zirkzee need to be 'more selfish'
18:25 , Mike JonesRuben Amorim says that Joshua Zirkzee needs to be more selfish despite seeing an improvement in his performances.
“I think he's improving in a lot of aspects,” explained the Man Utd boss.
“I think he needs to be more selfish, and that is a thing when you play as a striker. He's not a typical striker, but he has to be more selfish. He's more aggressive now, he works better now, he's defending better now, he's connecting quite well.
“He played as a striker in some games, especially against Arsenal he did really, really well. Then in some games, against [Real] Sociedad, he played as a 10, so he can adapt to different situations. So, I see that Josh is improving and showing good things.”
'I am always optimistic'
18:20 , Mike JonesRuben Amorim says that winning a European title would boost the confidence of his Man Utd players.
He said: "I am always saying that we are going to win the Premier League, so you can see that I am always optimistic.
“I think I was born with that; you cannot change or fake it. Through your life, you are who you are. I see things in a positive way.
“The first one [aim] is to win a title, a European title. It would be nice for our confidence."
Amorim on Lyon
18:15 , Mike JonesThe Manchester United manager said: "Lyon are more physical, bigger and faster than [round of 16 opponents] Real Sociedad.
“Since Fonseca arrived, they have won most of their matches, scoring more goals and conceding fewer.
“They play a possession-based game and it will be a different challenge for us."
Kobbie Mainoo trains with his Manchester United team-mates ahead of Lyon trip
18:10 , Mike JonesKobbie Mainoo trained with his Manchester United team-mates ahead of the Europa League quarter-final at Lyon as the midfielder prepares to return from his two-month lay-off.
The homegrown 19-year-old has been absent since picking up a muscular issue in training in the days after his most recent appearance against Leicester in the FA Cup on February 7.
Kobbie Mainoo trains with his Manchester United team-mates ahead of Lyon trip
'I know what Ruben is trying to achieve'
18:05 , Mike JonesFonseca finally touched on his opposite number this evening and praised Ruben Amorim.
He said: "I know what Ruben is trying to achieve. His teams are hard to play against.
“We will have to defend well if we want to give ourselves the chance to score.
“We will have to stay focused, work hard and defend as a team."
'We will play to win'
18:00 , Mike JonesThe Lyon boss also spoke about the mindset his players have for tonight’s game adding: "I'm happy that my players want [to win the Europa League], but I have to be more level-headed.
“We want to win, but we're up against one of the best teams in the world.
“We believe in ourselves, in our ability, in our players. We will play to win.
“Confidence is high in the squad. I think my team is ready."
'This is an important game for us'
17:55 , Mike JonesLyon coach, Paulo Fonseca, said: "This is an important game for Manchester United, but it's an important game for us too.
“Maybe it's more decisive for them as [the Europa League] represents their only way to get into the Champions League for next season, whereas we have the league option as well."
Nemanja Matic is right about Andre Onana – but he is far from Man United’s biggest problem
17:50 , Mike JonesIf nothing else, it was good news for Massimo Taibi. Or maybe it wasn’t, as it prompted memories of his ill-fated, and ignominiously brief, spell in the Manchester United goal. The Italian has tended to be the byword for bad United keepers.
He may have company. At least in the eyes of Nemanja Matic – whose time as a teammate of Thibaut Courtois, Petr Cech and David de Gea could give him an insight into goalkeeping – whose presence in the Lyon midfield already added spice to Thursday’s reunion with United and who took issue with Onana’s undiplomatic assertion the English club are “way better” than their French hosts.
Nemanja Matic is right about Andre Onana – but he isn’t Man Utd’s biggest problem
Lyon's terrible record
17:45 , Mike JonesLyon have never beaten Manchester United in four attempts in major European competitions.
They’ve drawn two and lost two of those four games played between the teams.
Only against Barcelona have they gone more often without winning in Europe (played eight, drawn three, lost five).
Matic calls Onana 'one of the worst goalkeepers in Man Utd's history'
17:40 , Jamie BraidwoodNemanja Matic called Andre Onana “one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United” history in a brutal response to his eye-raising claim that Ruben Amorim’s side are “way better” than Lyon.
“To say that, you need to have cover for something like that,” Matic told a press conference ahead of facing his former team. “I respect everyone but to say that... you need to give an answer.
“When you are one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United history, you need to take care what you’re talking [about].
“If David de Gea or Peter Schmeichel or Edwin van der Sar said that then I would question myself.
“But if you are, statistically, one of the worst goalkeepers in Manchester United history then he needs to show that before he says. We will see.”
Andre Onana claims Man Utd ‘way better’ than Lyon
17:35 , Mike JonesAndre Onana does not expect Manchester United’s make-or-break Europa League quarter-final to be easy but has confidently claimed Ruben Amorim’s side are “way better” than Lyon.
“We all know the importance of this game, so we will go there with a winning mentality,” he said in the build-up to tonight’s match.
“It’s not our best season but we still have something big to win, so we will go for it.
“It’s (Lyon) a very good team, we know some of them, but I don’t think we have to focus about them. It’s more about us, what we’re going to do.
“I think we are better than them, we just have to go there and show who we are.
“If we go there with a winning mentality and we are focused, we stay compact, together and we follow the game plan, we will be winning the game.
“Of course, it’s not going to be easy, but I think we are way better than them.”
Andre Onana responds to Nemanja Matic’s ‘worst goalkeeper in Man Utd history’ comment
17:30 , Jamie BraidwoodAndre Onana responded to Nemanja Matic’s astonishingly brutal comment that he is the “one of the world goalkeepers in Manchester United history” by reminding the midfielder that he did not win any trophies during his time at Old Trafford.
An extraordinary build-up to Thursday’s Europa League tie continued as Onana took to social media and posted a picture of him holding the FA Cup at Wembley with United last season, adding “some can’t say the same”.
Andre Onana responds to Nemanja Matic’s ‘worst goalkeeper in Man Utd history’ comment
Lyon vs Man Utd prediction
17:25 , Mike JonesRuben Amorim’s side will need to improve their finishing while being wary of Lyon’s attacking threat.
But, United should have enough quality to take a result back to Old Trafford ahead of next week’s second leg.
Lyon 1-1 Manchester United.
Man Utd early team news
17:20 , Mike JonesFor United, both Kobbie Mainoo and Matthijs de Ligt could return for this match, though it will come too soon for Ayden Heaven. Chido Obi is also unavailable after not being registered.
Mason Mount made a return against City, and he will be hoping to feature alongside Luke Shaw, who was an unused substitute. Joshua Zirkzee will also hope to return to the starting eleven after impressing in recent weeks.
Predicted Man Utd XI: Onana; Mazraoui, Maguire, Yoro; Dalot, Ugarte, Casemiro, Dorgu; Fernandes, Garnacho; Zirkzee.
Lyon early team news
17:15 , Mike JonesLyon winger Ernest Nuamah is out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, and he’ll likely be replaced by young French talent Rayan Cherki. Belgian winger Malick Fofana is also out.
Former United winger Nemanja Matic will likely anchor the midfield for the French side, with former Arsenal man Alexandre Lacazaette leading the line.
Predicted Lyon XI: Perri; Maitland-Niles, Mata, Niakhate, Tagliafico; Tessmann, Matic; Cherki, Almada, Tolisso; Lacazette.
How can I watch it?
17:11 , Mike JonesThe match will be shown live in the UK on TNT Sports 1, with coverage starting at 7pm. Subscribers can also watch online via discovery+.
You can purchase a TNT Sports subscription via discovery+ here, for only £30.99 per month.
When is Lyon vs Manchester United?
17:05 , Mike JonesThe match is due to kick off at 8pm BST on Thursday, 10 April at the Groupama Stadium in Lyon, France.
Lyon vs Man Utd
17:00 , Mike JonesManchester United travel to France to face Lyon tonight in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie.
Ruben Amorim’s side cross the Channel hoping to take a step closer to salvaging something from a desperately disappointing season so far, with the Europa League the only thing left to play for over the last few months.
Last week’s draw to Manchester City showed some encouraging attacking signs while highlighting the desperate need for a player to apply the finishing touch upfront, though the Red Devils will be hoping to find that touch against the French side.
Lyon remain one of France’s most famed sides despite falling from grace since a period of winning seven straight Ligue 1 titles between 2002 and 2008, and have a range of attacking talent including Alexandre Lacazette, Rayan Cherki and Georges Mikautadze.
Good afternoon!
15:13 , Mike JonesWelcome to The Independent’s coverage of tonight’s Europa League action which sees Manchester United take on Lyon in the first leg of their quarter-final tie.
United have been an incredibly consistent team in Europe this year, which is a stark contrast to their domestic form, and are one of the favourites to win this tournament.
But, their hosts this evening are in good form and will feel confident about defeating a lacklustre United side short on confidence themselves.
We’ll have all the team news, line-ups and updates throughout the evening so stick with us as we build up to kick off at 8pm.
